"Tansuwarashi" is a supernatural drama that explores themes of memory, loss, and the lingering presence of the past. The narrative centers around a young man named Haruto, who inherits an antique chest of drawers from his late grandfather. Upon moving into his grandfather’s old house, Haruto discovers that the chest of drawers, known as a "tansu," is inhabited by a spirit named Tansuwarashi. This spirit, a small, childlike entity, claims to be the guardian of the tansu and the memories stored within it.

As Haruto begins to interact with Tansuwarashi, he learns that the tansu contains fragments of memories from people who once owned or interacted with it. Each drawer holds a different memory, and as Haruto opens them, he is transported into vivid, emotionally charged recollections of the past. These memories belong to individuals from various time periods, ranging from his grandfather’s youth to strangers whose lives intersected with the tansu in unexpected ways. Through these experiences, Haruto gains insight into the lives of others, as well as his own family’s history, which is deeply intertwined with the tansu.

The series delves into the emotional weight of these memories, often highlighting themes of regret, love, and the passage of time. Haruto’s relationship with Tansuwarashi evolves as he uncovers more about the spirit’s origins and purpose. Tansuwarashi, while initially enigmatic and mischievous, reveals a deeper connection to the tansu and the memories it safeguards. The spirit’s role as a guardian is tied to its own unresolved past, which gradually comes to light as Haruto delves deeper into the tansu’s secrets.

Supporting characters include Haruto’s childhood friend, Aoi, who becomes involved in his journey with the tansu, and an elderly neighbor, Mrs. Fujimoto, who provides cryptic but valuable knowledge about the tansu’s history. These characters add layers to the narrative, offering perspectives that help Haruto piece together the significance of the tansu and its impact on those who encounter it.

The plot unfolds episodically, with each episode focusing on a specific memory contained within the tansu. These self-contained stories are woven together by Haruto’s overarching quest to understand the tansu’s purpose and its connection to his family. The series balances moments of melancholy with warmth, creating a poignant exploration of how memories shape identity and the ways in which the past continues to influence the present.